I never thought I would end up in education. It was my experience as a resident at the Kansas City VAMC that inspired me to teach. Since then, I have moved towards every teaching opportunity presented to me. From my first job as full-time faculty at the Illinois College of Optometry, to teaching live board reviews for KMK students, to continuing education to practicing optometrists, I enjoy it all.

The most satisfying teaching I have done, however, is not in front of a large group of people, but instead helping students overcome their struggle to pass boards. That phone call/text/email when they find out they pass is an amazing feeling to experience, but even more so is helping students realize that they had it in them all along and setting them up for success in their future careers. I am so excited to help you succeed!

I graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Psychology, then went on to earn my Doctor of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, where I finished with high honors. During my time there, I served as president of SOSH and was a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society.

After graduation, I completed an ocular disease residency at the Baltimore VA, which included advanced training at Johns Hopkins in their cornea and specialty contact lens clinics. In 2015, I was honored to be named Connecticut’s Young Optometrist of the Year.

I also founded OcularPrime.com—a resource I created to help make eye care more approachable and easier to understand. I currently practice in Stamford, CT and specialize in ocular surface disease and contact lenses. Pharmacology is my favorite, and I love teaching all things pharm!

I graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University with a degree in Biology, then earned my Doctor of Optometry, also summa cum laude, from the University of Houston College of Optometry. During my time at UHCO, I had the privilege of serving as president of the Fellowship of Christian Optometrists, which was one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.

I’m truly passionate about helping optometry students succeed, and I’m honored to serve as the KMK Team Lead. These days, I practice in Fredericksburg, Texas, where I live with my husband and our three wonderful kids.

Amanda graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University with a degree in biology. She then graduated summa cum laude from the…

Prior to entering Optometry school, I thought I might end up in teacher’s college after University. What an amazing journey life has brought me on, in that I get to combine both of these passions together! I’ve never identified with being the “smartest student”, I’ve always had to work really hard to get to where I am. I’m a visual learner – and although it may not be the quickest way of studying, sometimes slowing things down and drawing things out is what really makes things click for me.  I’ve been involved in tutoring optometry students since I was a second year NECO student and have also contributed to some of the drawings you’ve seen in the KMK textbooks and Booster programs. I can’t wait to organize and simplify concepts through visuals and discussion as we tackle anatomy and physiology together! I’m 10/10 excited to get you all through boards and help you conquer this test as a TEAM! Let’s DO THIS!

Thrilled is an understatement when trying to fully describe my excitement to be involved with KMK Coaching. Small group and one-on-one teaching/coaching is how the students and athletes that I’ve worked with in the past get the personalized and individualized attention to detail that they so greatly need and deserve in order to excel beyond their current skill level.

I’ve been an athlete all my life and am therefore VERY competitive. The phrase “if you’re not first you’re last” has often driven me to achieve new goals. Also, being a born-and-raised farm girl, “grit” is practically my last name. So, I’ll take my competitive nature and hard work ethic and get “down to business” to push you to new heights. Let’s build your confidence to take this test “by the horns”!!!

I truly fell in love with education the second I entered a classroom after graduating college. The rush of giving the gift of a “lightbulb” moment (the moment when someone “gets it”) is the biggest driver in my career. Before optometry school I worked as an educator at the college, high school and middle school level. I have experience in the classroom and with one-on-one coaching.

I previously worked for Kaplan® where I had my first opportunities to help students navigate standardized testing. Now I get help my patients take off by specializing in Peds/VT/TBI and get you all through boards! Let’s do this!

I was ushered into the teaching sphere by a really great mentor at the Kansas City VAMC. I hope to inspire students and help them come to the realization that mastering the subjects of optometry is how we take excellent care of patients. I wasn’t initially drawn to optics, as I love ocular disease, but in learning it I feel as though I have become a much better prescriber and my patients are benefiting.

I know optics is a particularly difficult subject for many and because it took me a while to master, I can relate to the struggles of leveling up in this particular subject and I want to help you get there.

I love to teach because I love to learn. When I teach, not only am I constantly learning and reviewing material but, moreover, it allows me to learn about other people- how they think, how they analyze, and how they understand a problem. I love seeing different perspectives on a topic, because I think a lot of times teaching a student is just trying to unlock how that person understands something. It’s going to be different for everyone!

Therefore, I am so excited to be a coach and to be working in a small group setting so we can really breakdown ideas and figure out what your hurdles are. What is it going to be that unlocks the concepts for you so we can cross the finish line and get that PASS!

I come from a long line of teachers and have such a strong passion for what that role stand for, and I want to bring that passion to your computer screen! I hope to show you how being in this coaching program is not just about getting that “P” (which I cannot wait for y’all to have that moment!). It is about changing your mindset and completely changing your approach. And most importantly is is about growing in your confidence to be that great clinician I know you’ll be. I cannot wait to meet y’all and see that “P” as the step to your career as an optometrist!

Throughout my life I have always understood and appreciated the power and impact that teaching has on students. In kindergarten, I was lucky enough to have my mother as my teacher. At the time I found it quite annoying as I was automatically assigned clean up duties and forced into the spotlight during school plays and recitals. However, as I grew older, I appreciated the passion and effort that my mom put into her craft and continuously saw the impact that it has had on me and her former students.

Throughout my time as a tutor in optometry school, I quickly realized how much I enjoyed sharing my passion and love for optometry (especially optics) with others. Interacting with optometry students gets me so excited about the future of our profession and the coaching program will allow all of us to grow as clinicians together. I am so excited for this journey and cannot wait to get to work!

Part 1 isn’t a test of intelligence—if that was the case, it would be a lot easier to pass. It tests your ability to study effectively and organize information. Working with students like you to help conquer this test together is my dream job! There is something so fulfilling about working with hungry individuals who are just ready to hunker down and get into the nitty gritty. I’ve always gravitated towards tutoring and mentoring because it is where my strengths and passions lie. When I was studying for boards, the thing that I wished I had more guidance in was how to maximize the way I remember information – it’s so much more than memorizing random facts!

During our time together, we will work on your confidence in the material, but equally as important is arriving at a point where you feel empowered to take this test head on. My goal is to help you study effectively and understand the “why” behind concepts, so that you don’t need to memorize everything. Let’s get this party started so that we can get you to the finish line!

Throughout optometry school and even undergrad I have loved to tutor and teach. I’ve been so torn between a love for education and a love for patient care and I never knew how I could scratch both itches! That’s why I’m so thankful for the opportunity to help students prepare for boards and for a lifetime of saving vision and improving lives. Boards can be so daunting and stressful; my hope is that through our coaching sessions you will feel encouraged and empowered. Looking forward to meeting you and celebrating with you when you get that “P”!

I am so thrilled to be a KMK Coach! Teaching and coaching have been a part of my life for a long time through optometry school, in residency, while living overseas, and having externs in the private practice setting. Outside of optometry, I teach weekly and help coach soccer and track. I am so excited to combine my love of optometry, teaching, and coaching into one through KMK Coaching! I am looking forward to making connections with you and walking alongside you as you not only learn material but put it all together to become rockstar doctors. I am so thankful to have a front row seat to watch you soar!

I have always had a passion for coaching, teaching, and working with students. I never imagined I would be able to connect my love for teaching with my career, optometry! There is nothing more exciting than taking on the monstrosity that we call boards and dominating it as a team first, then as individuals on test day.

There will be days of studying where the material seems too big to tackle. I remember feeling that way too. With small group coaching, we are able to break down concepts, discuss material, and teach each other. Studying for boards as a TEAM rather than as individual is so rewarding. I’m thrilled to not only teach each one of you but in return learn from you too!

Hey, I’m Chris Borgman and I’m a coach here at KMK. I fell in love with teaching when I was a resident at the Illinois Eye Institute in Chicago, Ill. I had the super cool (yet unexpected) opportunity to teach 3rd and 4th year students in class and clinic, and found a passion for teaching I never knew I even had! That experience stoked the fires for me to enter academia full-time, which is where I’ve been since 2014 here at Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. Every day is filled with exciting questions, challenges, and conversations from students and residents as we all grow and learn together. It’s such a fun process for me to be a part of!

In my decade of teaching students every day, I’ve learned that every single student has hurdles they struggle with, whether it be boards or certain classes. I love seeing students have those “light bulb” moments where they finally understand a challenging concept or meet their goals. I’m pumped to share my experience and passion for teaching with you through KMK Coaching. I want you to dominate boards, I want you to take that knowledge to your future practices, and I want you to save as many eyeballs as possible in this great profession!

You can totally do this! I’m super excited to be here to help you get over this hurdle. Let’s get to work!

Some of my favorite memories as an Optometry student involve tutoring and being a lab teaching assistant. I enjoyed sharing in the moments when students finally understood a concept that they had been struggling with. That moment when everything comes together and finally makes sense. This love for teaching was further solidified during my residency when I worked with 2nd and 3rd years in the clinic. As a faculty member at an Optometry school, I see the work students put into their board preparations and the disappointment they experience when they fail. I want to be a part of the process to help my future colleagues overcome this hurdle in their career. I’m super excited to join the KMK coaching team and help you get this “P.” Let’s do this!

My career path is unique to say the least: from making a complete 180 career jump from digital production at Cartoon Network to returning to a college campus to get 3 years of science prerequisites (yes, three whole years!!) for optometry school, I knew deep down I was meant to be a teacher. In my time delving into the world of science preparing for my new STEM-based career of optometry, I found myself happiest and most inspired when I was TA’ing or tutoring. I sought every opportunity to build connections with students in my post-baccalaureate and optometry school time. I tutored weekly for 7 years straight, and TA’d for a cumulative 6 semesters.

Now that I am graduated, yes, patient care is extremely gratifying, and that “itch” for education and connection can indeed be scratched in the exam room! Working with students though, is my absolute favorite, so being in this position as a coach is a dream come true. Y’all are so ready to learn, the fire and passion is there, the foundation is there. It’s my job–and honor– to take y’all above and beyond, expanding your knowledge and deepening your confidence. We will do this together, and you will “a-ha!” your way across the finish line. You are so supported by everyone here at KMK and we can’t wait to see you succeed!

With over a decade of dedicated experience in customer service, Ivy brings a wealth of expertise to her role at KMK Support. Having joined KMK almost two years ago, she has swiftly integrated into the team, showcasing her expertise in addressing student inquiries and providing tailored solutions.

Within KMK Support, Ivy actively participates in various job-related tasks aimed at improving student satisfaction. This includes handling student inquiries, resolving issues efficiently, and ensuring a seamless support experience. Ivy is dedicated to providing personalized assistance and guidance to students, fostering a positive and supportive environment.

Ivy’s deep-seated passion for supporting students springs from a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact on their lives. She’s driven by the belief that every interaction is an opportunity to leave a positive, lasting impression. Ivy thrives in the fast-paced atmosphere of support, where she can utilize her strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and unwavering dedication to student success. Her commitment to going above and beyond ensures that each student feels valued and supported throughout their journey.

Dr. Jennifer Dang graduated from Salus University, Pennsylvania College of Optometry. She currently practices optometry full-time in Southeast TX and has gravitated into KMK Coaching out of a desire to help future ODs. In her position, she has a chance to promote connection and teamwork. She really enjoys engaging and learning from students to better understand their situation, creating strategic plans, and advocating for them.

Jennifer believes in Coaching because her journey actually started as a KMK coaching student. Her experience ignited a passion to extend awareness to future optometrists that their careers are within reach. She emphasizes that success comes in different ways and that perseverance makes an individual’s journey even more powerful. She truly understands that a strong support system is essential to pave the way for extraordinary optometrists and their future patients.

Megan has a passion for education. Her career has been devoted to working in a variety of educational settings and working with students and teachers on improving their instruction and learning outcomes. When KMK Coaching was founded, Megan worked closely with the coaching team learning side of the program and operations. She dedicated herself to the science of learning, so that coaching could educate students on how to learn efficiently and effectively.

She worked on implementing best practices for teaching. As Coaching continued to expand to help more and more students, Megan moved to handling more operations and supporting students any way she could.

“There is nothing better than seeing a student get that P that they worked so hard for! You can do this!”
Megan always been passionate about helping students realize their potential, and it has been my favorite part of working in the Coaching program.

Dr. Kate Lanier graduated with distinction from the University of Alabama School of Optometry. She has been involved in research and teaching throughout her entire career but her favorite thing is connecting with patients and optometry students. Having lived and practiced in North Carolina and Florida, and having taught optometry in England, she understands the ins-and-outs of optometry and the support that students need in order to achieve their personal and professional goals. She delights in completed spreadsheets and organization so she is passionate about making the Coaching Program run as smoothly as possible. Her goal is for every single student to thrive in Coaching and look back on their time in Coaching as something that supported them and helped them become rockstar doctors.

I was born and raised in Iowa (not Germany) where I attended undergraduate school at Loras College. I graduated optometry school from MCPHS University in Worcester, Mass., where I was honored to be inducted into the Gold Key Society, Beta Sigma Kappa, and Phi Kappa Phi. Upon graduation I was awarded the President’s Award. While in Worcester, I co-created the Walk Fit program that aimed to connect optometry students to visually impaired persons (VIPs) by coming together to create community, awareness, and promote fitness. I completed a residency in Ocular Disease and Low Vision Rehabilitation at the Kansas City VA Medical Center where I also developed a passion for teaching. Currently, I am enjoying working as part of the Mercy Eye Specialists Glaucoma Care Team in Springfield, Mo., where my wife, and three children call home.

Dr. Jordan Keith, a graduate of Pacific College of Optometry, never thought he would end up in education. It was his experience as a resident at the Kansas City VAMC that inspired him to teach. Since then, he has moved towards every teaching opportunity presented to him. From his first job as full-time faculty at the Illinois College of Optometry, to teaching live board reviews for KMK students, to continuing education to practicing optometrists, he enjoys it all.

The most satisfying teaching he has done, however, is not in front of a large group of people, but instead helping students overcome their struggle to pass boards. That phone call/text/email when they find out they pass is an amazing feeling to experience, but even more so is helping students realize that they had it in them all along and setting them up for success in their future careers. He is so excited to help you succeed!

Dr. Nicole Theiss graduated with distinction from the New England College of Optometry. She has been involved in teaching throughout her entire career, working as a clinical and didactic tutor at NECO, precepting students annually with VOSH, and instructing optometry students with KMK. She loves that she has found a career where she gets to combine all her passions of teaching, creativity and optometry together. She is a visual learner by nature and often uses her creative talents to help explain difficult concepts in the classroom. She is passionate about providing guidance and instruction for students on their own individual optometric journeys as she has also personally navigated many different practice modalities and board exams in both the U.S. and Canada. She is truly honored and excited to connect with students and guide them, whether it’s on their broader journey, or getting down the details of ocular anatomy and physiology.

Aimee Amagan is a seasoned Communications Specialist at KMK Optometry, where she manages client-facing content and oversees subscription mapping for student plans. With a strong background in streamlining communication processes, Aimee specializes in organizing complex data—often through spreadsheet systems—to ensure accurate and efficient service delivery.

She also brings experience in creating presentations, standard operating procedures, and support resources that align with both customer and business needs. Known for her practical, clear communication style and attention to detail, Aimee plays a key role in bridging internal teams with client-facing operations.
She is all about making the Coaching experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible for the internal team and the students, from handling logistics to making sure everything is organized and ready to go.

Her goal is simple: to make sure everyone—team and students alike—feels supported, informed, and set up for success every step of the way.